If you're waking up with sharp heel pain or feel a stabbing sensation every time you stand, you're not alone. Heel pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit Roadrunner Foot and Ankle—and ignoring it can lead to bigger problems down the road.

What Causes Heel Pain?

The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, a condition where the thick band of tissue on the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed. Other causes include Achilles tendinitis, heel spurs, stress fractures, and bursitis. These conditions don’t just hurt—they can affect how you walk, your posture, and your overall activity level.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Treat It

When heel pain is ignored, the body tries to compensate. That means you may start walking differently without even realizing it, leading to pain in your knees, hips, or back. Over time, untreated heel pain can cause chronic inflammation or even tearing of the plantar fascia.

At Roadrunner Foot and Ankle, our board-certified podiatrists in Peoria, Arizona will evaluate your symptoms, take X-rays if needed, and create a custom treatment plan designed to get you out of pain and back on your feet.

What Treatment Looks Like

Treatment depends on the cause of your heel pain. In most cases, we start with conservative treatments, which may include:

• Custom orthotics
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• MLS® Laser Therapy to reduce inflammation
• Night splints
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Cortisone injections (if necessary)

We’ll walk you through every step, explain what’s happening in plain language, and make sure you feel confident in your recovery plan.

Get the Relief You Deserve

Heel pain is not something you should “push through” or ignore. Whether you’re a runner, a parent on your feet all day, or someone who just wants to walk without discomfort, help is available—and early treatment makes all the difference.

If heel pain is holding you back, it’s time to take the next step. Call Roadrunner Foot and Ankle in Peoria, AZ to schedule an appointment with Dr. Margaret Withrow or Dr. Dylan Kaumaya today.   Let’s get you walking pain-free again.